A police investigation into the horrific Jaipur road tragedy has revealed that the truck driver responsible for killing 19 people and injuring many others was drunk and enraged after a heated altercation minutes before he began his deadly rampage. Officials have confirmed that the catastrophe was not caused by mechanical failure but by deliberate, reckless driving triggered by anger and intoxication.
According to senior police officers, the driver of the dumper truck had a confrontation with a car driver shortly before the incident. The two vehicles reportedly brushed against each other, leading the car driver to confront and scold the dumper driver. Enraged by the exchange, the truck driver rammed the car intentionally. The car’s driver quickly pulled over to save himself, after which the truck driver accelerated away at high speed, heading toward Lohamandi Road.
Assistant Commissioner of Police Usha Yadav stated that the altercation did not happen at the crash site but on a nearby turning. She confirmed that earlier claims of brake failure are untrue. Instead, the accused driver, already under the influence of alcohol, lost control over his actions after the argument and began driving dangerously at high speed.
Moments later, on Lohamandi Road, the truck struck a scooter rider and then continued to barrel down the route, ploughing into a queue of vehicles. In total, at least 17 vehicles were crushed or severely damaged, including cars, motorbikes, and scooters. The force of the impact left bodies strewn across the road, vehicles mangled beyond recognition, and personal belongings scattered amid scenes of destruction.
Eyewitnesses described the aftermath as chaotic and distressing. People rushed to pull victims from twisted metal, while others stood shocked, surrounded by cries of pain and panic. Some survivors were trapped inside their vehicles, and others lay injured on the road. Witnesses noted blood everywhere and said that despite attempts by some individuals to pursue the truck, the driver continued fleeing until he was later apprehended.
Police have officially confirmed that the driver was intoxicated at the time of the incident. He has been taken into custody as authorities gather evidence and record witness statements to build a strong case.
National leaders have expressed shock and sorrow over the tragic loss of lives. Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed his condolences and announced financial support of ₹2 lakh each for the families of those killed. He also wished a speedy recovery to those injured. President Droupadi Murmu called the accident deeply heartbreaking and extended her prayers and support to the affected families.
Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma termed the incident extremely tragic and promised full assistance from the state government, including medical treatment for the injured and all necessary help for mourning families.
The devastating crash has reignited discussion about the strict enforcement of drunk-driving laws and stronger road-safety measures in India, particularly for heavy-vehicle operators. Authorities continue to investigate the sequence of events, and further legal action against the driver is expected as the probe progresses.
